Linda Lewis Photography- Wedding and Portrait Photographer in Southern California

Brenda and Brandon's Engagement Session

2011-10-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

Brenda and Brandon met me early on a Sunday morning in Pasadena, and we had a relaxed and fun time, while taking advantage of the beautiful morning light! It's good that we started early because it was one of the hottest days of the year and when we finished at 10:30, it was over 90 degrees! I was very fortunate that they were not only a gorgeous couple, but enthusiastic and photogenic as well! They are getting married next year in the beautiful Napa Valley.

Chris and Kate

2011-10-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

Our day began at the family home of our bride, Kate, in Monrovia, CA. What a spectacular garden! Kate’s family had been working tirelessly for months, sprucing up the beautiful yard so that we could have perfect backgrounds for pictures. We spent a lovely afternoon photographing the bride and groom, their wedding party and family members.

Once all the pictures were completed, everyone traveled to St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in Pasadena. A large crowd of excited family and friends watched as Chris and Kate were married in a beautiful ceremony, after which the party began! The reception was held in the newly-remodeled banquet hall on the grounds of St. Gregory’s. Many thanks to Kaci and her team from Hustle and Bustle Wedding Coordination for making everything run smoothly!

Diana and Marcus

2011-07-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

Diana and Marcus were married on a beautiful summer afternoon at Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, CA. Because I’m a friend of the bride, my associate photographers, Monika and Frank, did almost all the photography (I couldn’t resist taking a picture here and there!). They both worked very hard to capture every beautiful moment for Diana and Marcus, and did a fantastic job!

Monika arrived at Shutters and went directly to Diana’s room to get pictures as she prepared for the wedding. Frank was with Marcus and his groomsmen while they dressed, and hung out together.

Diana and Marcus decided to see each other before the wedding and take all the pictures together, with family members, and wedding party. Marcus waited on the pool level balcony and Diana joined him for the “first look”. It was a sweet moment and we all felt a little teary-eyed.

The ceremony took place on the pool terrace with a view of the ocean and afterwards guests gathered in the Grand Salon.

Thanks to Lisa Feucht, Event Coordinator at Stephanie Grace Design, for the beautiful floral arrangements, doing such a fantastic job keeping everyone on schedule and making sure that Diana and Marcus had the wedding of their dreams!

Aimee and Eric got married!

2011-06-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

It was one of those unusually hot Spring days for Aimee and Eric's wedding in Hollywood. We started photography at the Hollywood Hills Hotel on Franklin Ave, which is a very hip and contemporary location. Monika, my associate photographer worked with me, helped make the day run smoothly, and took amazing pictures! While Aimee was preparing, I spent some time with Eric and his family before heading to the Hollywood Lutheran Church for the beautiful and touching ceremony. It was the perfect clear day for pictures at Barnsdall Park and we had views of Los Angeles all around. After pictures we headed to The Smog Shoppe for the reception. The Smog Shoppe is in Culver City and is proudly "one of the most sustainably designed urban spaces in the United States", using green certified or salvaged building materials, solar panels for their electrical needs, and 2,000 sq. ft. of drought tolerant vertical gardens. It was a lovely evening of great music, yummy food, and lots of congratulations!

Diana and Marcus Are Getting Married! Santa Monica Engagement Session.

2011-05-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

Diana and Marcus met me at the entrance to the Pier in Santa Monica for their engagement session on a sunny, Sunday afternoon. What a fun location for pictures! You can't find a better place for lots of color, activity and beautiful views of the beach. Diana and Marcus are lovely, easy-going people and they made the afternoon just fly by with their enthusiasm and willingness to try whatever crazy idea we could think of! Their wedding is coming up very soon-June 11th, and I'm looking forward to spending their wedding day with them, along with my Associate Photographers, Monika and Frank. Congratulations you two!

Emily and Mike's Wedding is Featured in One Stylish Bride Blog!

2011-05-20T18:03:00.000-07:00

It seems that bloggers can't get enough of Mike and Emily's wedding photos, and they have been showing up all over the web. It's completely understandable because they are such a stunning couple, and the vintage details were unique and so well done! Here's what they said:

"Every little bit of Emily and Mike’s bird themed wedding is perfection. Their charming wedding was completely unique with pretty vintage details, birdcage centerpieces, bird nest wedding favors, and a modern venue. The groom, a graphic designer, even made all the invitations and paper products.

As the idioms goes, a picture paints a thousand words, so we’ll leave the pictures to do the rest of the talking."

Here's the link to One Stylish Bride in their Wedding Inspiration Section:

http://www.onestylishbride.com/category/wedding-inspiration/

Melina and Eber

2011-05-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

It was threatening rain the day that Melina and Eber were married, but Melina was determined to have her dream wedding outdoors at the Calamigos Equestrian Center in Burbank. The sky darkened, and a few drops fell, but by the time the ceremony started the threat of rain was gone. What a beautiful ceremony! Reverend David, pronounced Melina and Eber husband and wife in front of a happy crowd of family and friends in the courtyard of the Little White House. The reception continued in the Grand Prix Ballroom with music by DJ Music Unlimited.

Emily and Mike

2011-03-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

Emily and Mike had a beautiful wedding day starting in Los Angeles, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, and moving to the Marina Del Rey Marriott. The weather was idyllic, the couple and wedding party were relaxed and fun, and the locations were picture-perfect (please excuse the pun).

Monika, my awesome associate photographer, started pictures with the guys, and I with the girls. We met up at the Church for a beautiful traditional Catholic ceremony, and after taking pictures there, moved to the Marriott for the reception.

Wow, the table settings, favors, and decorations were stunning….many of them hand-made by Mike and Emily. Mike is a talented graphic designer and it was very apparent by the complete attention to detail. Thanks to Annette and her team at Simply Natural Event Planning, who kept everything running smoothly. Congratulations Emily and Mike!

Rouba and Mike

2011-02-16T08:26:00.000-08:00

Rouba and Mike were married at one of my favorite locations in Southern California, the Los Angeles River Center. It’s a beautiful, historic, hacienda-style complex of buildings and gardens that’s open to the public weekdays and is mostly reserved for private parties and weddings on the weekends. The ceremony was held in one of the beautiful garden areas, and the reception held around the main fountain patio. They blended Egyptian and South American cultures by having Mariachi’s and a belly dancer for entertainment. Thanks to Heather Lee and her team from Now and Forever Events, for making sure that everything ran smoothly!

Wedding Wire Bride's Choice Award 2011!

2011-02-08T12:05:00.000-08:00

I'm very happy to announce that Linda Lewis Photography has received the Wedding Wire Bride's Choice Award for 2011. This is our third year in a row to receive this great honor!

Laura and Adam

2011-02-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

It was a warm and beautiful day in Marina Del Rey for the wedding of Laura and Adam. The ceremony was held at 10:30 a.m. at Burton Chace Park, on a small hill with a panoramic view of the Marina. It was lots of fun working with them because of their easy going personalities and great sense of humor, and their desire to make the day meaningful for all of their family and friends. Over 100 guests watched as they exchanged vows in a ceremony filled with music and readings chosen just for the day. Laura and Adam’s reception was held nearby at Shanghai Red’s Restaurant, which has an incredible weekend brunch! Thanks to Annette Garcia Kerslake at Simply Natural Events for making sure that everything looked beautiful and ran smoothly!

Alicia and Steve

2011-01-25T09:43:00.000-08:00

Alicia and Steve were married in Pasadena at the Western Justice Center, which is a beautiful location within walking distance of the Colorado Street Bridge (a great place for pictures!) The ceremony took place in a quiet, serene, tree shaded courtyard, witnessed by family and close friends. Afterwards, the party continued at the Rococo Room in Old Town Pasadena, a short drive away. The Rococo Room is a very lovely space run by Cafe Santorini, and is a perfect place for great ambiance and very delicious food!

Stephanie and Shane

2010-11-15T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Valencia Country Club was the location of Stephanie and Shane’s wedding on a beautiful sun-filled Sunday. The Club has many beautiful spots for pictures and we took advantage of them! We were given a golf cart and time to scoot around the course (away from the golfers, of course!) and take pictures at a variety of out-of-the-way spots. It was an emotional and fun day for all the friends and family that attended!

Lupe and Steven

2010-10-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

Lupe and Steven were married at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles. It’s a spectacular building, inside and out and a wonderful location for a wedding. Their reception was held at the Calamigos Equestrian Center in Burbank.

Amy and Mark

2010-09-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

Amy and Mark were married in Solvang at the Alisal Ranch River Grill, a beautiful location with rolling hills surrounding a beautiful golf course. They chose the date well, as it was perfect weather with blue skies and cool temperatures. It was a lovely day and a very fun group! Congratulations!

Todd and Shannon's Wedding in Big Sur, CA. Part 2, the ceremony.

2010-05-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

Casa Lauria is a wonderful setting for a small wedding. Nestled in the forest above Big Sur, it has a truly breathtaking view of the wooded mountains, looking West towards the ocean. Shannon and Todd wanted a simple, intimate ceremony with only close family members in attendance, and this seemed like the perfect place. While Shannon was getting ready with the help of her sister Sarah, Todd was upstairs putting his vows on paper. It was a beautiful day in Big Sur, almost 80 degrees and hardly a cloud in the sky! Standing on the deck with a view of the Redwood Forest, Shannon and Todd shared their vows together and were pronounced husband and wife.

Todd and Shannon's Wedding in Big Sur, CA. Part 1-The Flowers

2010-04-05T16:37:00.000-07:00

Todd and Shannon were married in Big Sur, CA at Casa Lauria, a historic, rustic, home nestled in the Redwood Forest along the winding coastline of Highway 1. Shannon created all the flower arrangements herself using flowers from her local Farmer's Market, feathers and small succulents. It was beautiful! She's very talented!

Kristi and Brandon

2010-03-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

Kristi and Brandon were married in Redlands, CA, on one of those clear, crisp, and warm winter days, that reminds us of why we live in Southern California! They decided to do their photo session before the ceremony, so they could greet guests immediately after. We began at the Church and then drove to a private residence, located in one of the historic neighborhoods of Redlands, where we wandered around the grounds and captured wonderful portraits of the couple. It was a lovely ceremony attended by over 200 guests. Brandon and Kristi's reception was highlighted by an elegant winter theme with colors of deep purple, pink, lavender, accented with feathers and beads.

LINDA LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY HAS BEEN CHOSEN TO RECEIVE WEDDINGWIRE'S BRIDE'S CHOICE AWARD!

2010-02-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

I am very happy to announce that Linda Lewis Photography has been chosen to receive WeddingWire's Bride's Choice Award for the second year in a row! The Bride's Choice Award recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by over 500,000 newlyweds. Being a recipient of this award means that we are in the top 5 percent of all wedding professionals in the WeddingWire Community! Thank you to all of the wonderful bride's that we have had the opportunity to work with in 2009...you're the best!

A Peek at Sean and Sheila's Wedding Album!

2010-01-27T14:37:00.000-08:00

Here is a small sampling of the beautiful pages from Sean and Sheila's Wedding Album. It was a very simple process: they chose their favorite images and our design team did the rest! Once Sean and Sheila gave their final approval for the album design, the book was assembled and delivered to the happy couple . Their album will always be a reminder of the joy and happiness of their special day.

Highlights from 2009 Sean and Sheila's Wedding Part 2

2010-01-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Here are more highlights from 2009!

Monika Reynolds, my good friend, took most of the images you see in this post-Sean and Sheila’s Wedding, Part 2. Sheila prepared for the ceremony in one wing of the house while Sean and his groomsmen waited in the beautiful back yard. Because it was an outdoor wedding, we were anxious about the weather and kept our fingers crossed, hoping it would be nice. It turned out to be more perfect than we could have imagined… almost 80 degrees and breezy! The music for the ceremony was performed by the Selah Gospel Choir, of which Sean and Sheila are members. We all felt blessed to witness this wonderful couple's commitment to one another! Thank you to everyone who contributed to their lovely day!

Highlights from 2009 Sean and Sheila's Wedding, Part 1

2009-12-30T17:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone and Happy 2010!

I’m excited to post some of the wedding highlights from 2009. One of the wonderful things that happened in our family this year was the marriage of my son, Sean to Sheila on April 18^th in Hesperia, CA. It was a beautiful setting in the backyard of the home of Gary and Helene Lewis. I didn’t take the pictures, though, since I was going to be a busy Mother-of-the Groom, and instead asked Monika Reynolds to be the primary photographer. She and I work together often, and I knew she would do an amazing job!

My husband, Thomas Alleman, who began his career as a newspaper photographer, and is now an editorial and fine art photographer (and who always has a camera in his hand!), and two of my students from the Chaffey College Wedding Photography class, Rachelle Imson, and Liz Garcia, also helped to document the day. I’m going to post the pictures from Sean and Sheila’s wedding in a series, the first being some of the pictures taken by my husband, Thomas. He has an incredible way of capturing the moment, which you will see as you look through his images.

Shannon Len and Todd Lewis worked tirelessly on the floral arrangements. Shannon is a talented jewelry and floral designer in San Luis Obispo, CA. Todd, being the helpful fiance that he is, was Shannon's trusted assistant!

Cynthia and Marco

2009-11-18T13:54:00.000-08:00

Cynthia and Marco were married in July at the Altadena Town and Country Club in Altadena, CA. It’s a beautiful location with a lush garden area for the ceremony and an elegant ballroom with gorgeous Spanish-influenced architecture. Marco saw Cynthia for the first time that day when she walked down the aisle accompanied by her Father, in front of a large group of family and close friends. After the vows were exchanged, we immediately gathered all the guests together for a large group photo. After family photos, we took a few moments to wander around the grounds for some quiet romantic portraits of the Cynthia and Marco before going on to the reception. Thanks to Stacy Porras Wedding Consulting for making everything run smoothly…Stacy and her crew were fantastic (as usual)!

Newest Album Design

2009-10-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

One of the many reasons that clients choose our studio, is for the beautiful albums we offer. Each book is custom designed to express the beauty and emotions of the wedding day. Here is an example of a recent wedding design for Jenny and Gayani, who were married in January in Santa Monica, CA at the Hotel Casa Del Mar.

From Jenny and Gayani's Wedding Album

Christine and Ernest

2009-10-14T17:33:00.001-07:00

Christine and Ernest celebrated their marriage with a reception at the Green River Golf Club in Corona, CA. They were married a month earlier in Hawaii, which was a dream come true for Christine! Everything was beautiful at the reception, (a Hawaiian theme, of course!) from the entertainment of Hawaiian dancers with a fire dance as the finale, to the tropical flowers for the bouquets and centerpieces. My second photographer Monika and I set up a backdrop and studio lighting for family group photos, which was a big hit!

Here are some of my recent favorites!

2009-09-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Noemi and Isaias

2009-09-15T16:13:00.001-07:00

The wedding day of Noemi and Isaias started at the Mission San Fernando Rey de Espana, which was founded in 1797, and located in Mission Hills, CA. The interior of the chapel is stunning with a beautiful altar that is over 300 years old. At the conclusion of the ceremony, which was attended by a large group of family and friends, we traveled to the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens, located in Cypress Park. If there were ever two locations that reflect the history of Los Angeles, it is these. With Mission style architecture, the grounds of the River Center are full of beautiful spots for photographs, and as we wandered from place to place we stopped to take advantage of the wonderful light and backgrounds. It was a lovely evening with mild weather, and great food and music. Lina Wallace and her staff at A Stunning Affair Wedding and Event Planning took special care to insure that everything was perfect for Noemi and Isaias on their most important evening.

2009-08-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

I've been chosen by WeddingWire.com to receive a Bride's Choice Award for 2009! I'm very thrilled about it! If you haven't already checked out Wedding Wire, you should take a look. It's a great resource for all things wedding!

Carolyn and Jim

2009-08-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

-->I joined Carolyn and her bridesmaids in the beautiful “tower” bridal dressing room at the Palos Verdes Country Club as she dressed and made final preparations for her wedding. Jim anxiously waited downstairs with his groomsmen and greeted arriving family and friends. Carolyn was great to work with…so organized and fun! The ceremony started right on time, and as her father escorted her down the aisle, Carolyn saw Jim for the first time that day! They had a beautiful service high on a bluff in Palos Verdes, with an incredible view the Pacific Ocean, and after a fun and relaxed photo session, joined their guests for an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and toasts.

Elizabeth and Lindsay

2009-08-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time photographing the wedding of Elizabeth and Lindsay! They were married at the home of a close family member in Encino, and were both fun, easy going, and so obviously filled with love for one another. Elizabeth looked stunning in her gown! We took most of our pictures before the ceremony and it was a relaxed bride and groom that stood before family and fiends and made their vows together. The reception took place in the backyard, with lots of great food, dancing and karaoke!

Melissa and Chad

2009-06-17T09:06:00.001-07:00

Melissa and Chad were married in Los Angeles, at the beautiful Skirball Cultural Center. It sits on a hill, near the Getty Center, surrounded by stunning architecture and landscaping, and as a wedding location, is one of the most beautiful in Southern California. We started photography early, since Melissa and Chad chose to take all the pictures before their ceremony. This gave us lots of time to wander around the grounds and take full advantage of the surroundings. My second photographer was Frank Perez (who became best friends with everyone he met!). We all had a great time, and I have to mention that Melissa and Chad were relaxed and easy going, which made the photo session very enjoyable for us all. The little flower, Eva, was everyone's favorite! The ceremony was held inside one of the lovely meeting rooms, with over 100 of Melissa and Chad’s family and friends witnessing their commitment to one another. The ballroom at the Skirball is stunning, with ornately decorated ceilings three stories high, and was the perfect setting for the elegant dinner, dancing and toasts that followed.

Cynthia and Marco

2009-06-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

I met Cynthia and Marco in Santa Monica on a cool and overcast Sunday afternoon. Santa Monica pier is a fun destination, with restaurants and cafes, an arcade, and an amusement park, which boasts a large Ferris Wheel with an amazing view from the top! We started on the beach, walking South, and they were great sports…even willing to walk out into the chilly water! As we walked back towards the pier, we spent a little time taking pictures under it, which turns out to be a very cool space for photography, with lots of graphic elements and beautiful light. After a “costume change” we walked on the pier and took advantage of some of the “scenes” and then finished up at sunset, after the evening lights had come on. Cynthia and Marco are a very fun couple (nice too!) and I’m looking forward to their wedding in July in Altadena, CA!

2009-05-07T16:51:00.001-07:00

Erica and Victor were married at Our Lady of the Angels, the Catholic Cathedral in downtown Los Angeles. It’s a stunning building, with towering architecture and an interior that is filled with beautiful artwork, including wonderful tapestries by the artist John Nava. Before you enter the inside, you must pass through bronze doors created for the Cathedral by the late, world renowned, Los Angeles artist, Robert Graham.

Erica made her preparations in the lower level of the building, while Victor anxiously waited outside with his best man and family. After the ceremony, the guests were invited across the courtyard for a cocktail hour, while we wandered around the grounds and took pictures at day’s end, as the sun was setting.

Eric and Mandy, February 28, 2009

2009-04-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

Eric and Mandy got married at the beautiful Anaheim Sheraton, right next door to Disneyland. It’s a great location for a wedding because the grounds are beautiful and the staff works very hard to make the day fun and relaxing for everyone. Eric and Mandy decided to take all pictures before their ceremony, which I always think is a really great idea: when we do all the photography first, the couple has a much more relaxed experience the rest of the day, and can spend more time with their friends and family.

After arriving at the hotel, I went directly to Mandy’s room and made pictures as she put on her “finishing touches”, while my second photographer, Frank, photographed Eric and his groomsmen. Once Mandy was ready, we wandered around the grounds of the hotel, working in several beautiful locations, and then took pictures with the wedding party. Finally, we met up with family, and took lovely shots together with the bride and groom. Later, as a thrilled group of family and friends looked on, Eric pledged his love for Mandy. After the vows were completed, everyone adjourned to the ballroom for an evening of dinner and dancing.

Christine and Ernest

2009-04-13T12:13:00.001-07:00

Christine and Ernest met me in Long Beach, and we had a fun afternoon taking pictures and enjoying the beautiful scenery at the Japanese Gardens on the Cal State Long Beach campus. Shortly after our session, they flew off to Hawaii for the wedding of their dreams, and will be having a local reception for all of their family and friends on May 30th. Christine is my third cousin in a very large, extended Italian family, where we sometimes forget how we’re related, but know we are still “kissing cousins”. I’m looking forward to being a part of their special day in celebration of their commitment to one another.

Gary and Shirley, February 14, 2009

2009-03-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

The wedding of Shirley and Gary reminded me that it’s never too late to find love! They called me looking for a photographer for their Valentine’s Day ceremony, an intimate gathering at the Lake Avenue Church in Pasadena. Just a few minutes into our conversation, I knew this was going to be a very special afternoon! What a delight they were and so much in love, it brought tears to my eyes. They met through mutual friends at the Lake Avenue Church, and soon fell in love. They escorted each other down the aisle and were pronounced husband and wife in front of their family and close friends, who greeted them afterwards with hugs, kisses and congratulations.

Jenny and Gayani, January 11, 2009

2009-02-05T07:43:00.000-08:00

Jenny and Gayani were married at the Casa Del Mar Hotel, which is an elegant and classic building right on the beach in Santa Monica, CA. It was a beautiful day, and surprisingly warm for January, but we were happy for the great weather, as it gave us the opportunity to walk down to the beach for pictures before and after the ceremony. Jenny and Gayani were a joy to work with…both were very nice, laid back and relaxed. Their ceremony and reception took place in the Colonnade Ballroom, which was transformed with beautiful floral design by Fleuretica, and wonderful lighting by Jack Hou. Stacy Porras and her staff made sure that everything ran according to schedule, and did a wonderful job. Congratulations Jenny and Gayani!

Eric and Mandy

2009-01-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

I met Eric and Mandy in Long Beach on a sunny Saturday morning, to do their engagement photos in the Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach. What a lovely couple! We had a great time wandering around that beautiful and exotic site, getting acquainted while we took pictures. I’m always grateful for the opportunity these sessions give me to get to know my couples before their wedding---and they, in turn, learn to feel a little more comfortable in front of the camera, in advance of their wedding day. Eric and Mandy will be getting married on February 28th at the Anaheim Sheraton---one of my favorite locations!---and I’m definitely looking forward to spending their special day with them.

Sheila and Sean

2009-01-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

I had a great time with Sheila and Sean as we spent a couple of hours in Pasadena taking pictures to celebrate their engagement. We went to my favorite location, which is getting more and more popular with local photographers…so much so, that now a permit is required to be on the grounds. I didn’t know that there had been a change! We were approached by the “security guy” who, after some pleading and cajoling on our part, allowed us to stay. Sean and Sheila are so much fun, super attractive, and very photogenic…I may be a bit prejudiced, because I’m Sean’s Mom! They will be getting married April 18, 2009. Congratulations, you two!

Brenda and Adam, November 22, 2008

2009-01-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

Adam and Brenda were married on a crisp November day at the Twin Palms Restaurant in Old Town Pasadena, CA. They decided to do all the photography, including the family, and wedding party before the ceremony, at the Westin Hotel, where they were staying. The Westin is a wonderful location for pictures, with a variety of beautiful backgrounds, from contemporary to traditional, and a view of Pasadena City Hall, a stunning building which has been recently renovated and restored. I’m a great fan of taking all the pictures before the ceremony! It makes the day run much more smoothly and all the participants can relax afterward and enjoy time with their friends and family during the cocktail hour. The ceremony was beautiful, sweet, and touching, and the afternoon luncheon a fun time for all. Adam and Brenda used Stacy Porras as their wedding coordinator, and she and her staff made sure that everything ran smoothly! Thanks to Frank, my second photographer for great pictures!

Taryn and Reggie, October 11, 2008

2008-11-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

The Renaissance Hotel, in beautiful downtown Long Beach, was the location for Taryn and Reggie’s wedding. It’s such an elegant Hotel with amazing views! Taryn and Reggie live in Washington DC, so they had lots of long distance planning to do, and Velma from Kreative Celebrations made sure that everything went smoothly. Taryn was so fun and enthusiastic, and Reggie was laid back and relaxed…the perfect match, and it was obvious that all their friends and family were thrilled for them! Thanks to Shelly for working with me, and taking such great pictures! Congratulations Taryn and Reggie!

Megan and Chris, September 27, 2008

2008-11-18T10:07:00.000-08:00

Hi all…It’s been a while since my last posting! I’ll be catching you up on my recent weddings and portrait sessions in the next couple of weeks.

The wedding of Megan and Chris took place in Denver, Colorado. They chose Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church for their ceremony, which was built in 1899, and is the center of the local Italian community in Denver. I was fascinated with the architecture, and the interior reminded me of the many beautiful, ornate churches I saw when visiting Italy and Sicily. Megan had a great sense of humor and it was obvious that she was surrounded by loving, caring and warm family members and friends. She was relaxed and happy, and it was contagious! Chris and his groomsmen gathered outside the Church for pictures and they had a fun time goofing in front of the camera! After the Mass was over, and Megan and Chris had greeted their guests, we moved on to the Auraria Higher Education Center near downtown Denver. The reception was held in a beautiful space, which looked like a blend of old classic ballroom and industrial warehouse…it was perfect for their personalities! It was obvious how much Megan and Chris love each other and how much their friends and family mean to them. Congratulations!

Enosha and Anduwan, September 20, 2008

2008-10-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

I have been very fortunate this year, to have had so many lovely clients, and Enosha and Anduwan were no exception. They got married on September 20th in Redondo Beach where the temperature was mild and a light breeze blew…a perfectly beautiful day. The reception took place at the Chart House, which sits right at the edge of the ocean, with beautiful views of the water, and the ceremony took place on the sand. Enosha looked absolutely stunning as she came down the aisle, and it was obvious that Anduwan felt the same way as he saw her for the first time. Anduwan’s Grandmother gave a lovely toast at the reception, and everyone danced the afternoon away. It was great meeting their friends and family, and being a part of a very special day!

Kathleen and John, September 13, 2008

2008-10-13T19:07:00.001-07:00

It was a gorgeous location, and just about the most perfect weather, for Kathleen and John’s wedding on September 13th. They chose the Rancho Bernardo Inn, a premier hotel, spa and golf resort, nestled in the hills of San Diego, for their wedding. We arrived a couple of hours early to spend time with Kathleen as she made her preparations for the special day. She was so fun to work with, and about as beautiful as a bride can be. John also gathered with his attendants and family beforehand for some pictures, and waited until the moment arrived, when Kathleen and her father walked down the aisle. The outdoor ceremony was held at sunset (when the light was perfect!), and Kathleen looked absolutely stunning!

Megan and Jim, August 16, 2008

2008-09-30T07:16:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful day on August 16th for Megan and Jim’s wedding in Anaheim, CA. Their ceremony was held at San Antonio Catholic Church, and officiated by family friend, Father Ray. Megan and Jim seem perfect for each other….so calm, easy going and very fun to work with ! Their reception was held at the Anaheim Sheraton, right next door to Disneyland. After some lovely toasts, the first dance and a touching Father-Daughter dance, the party began! Congratulations to you both!

Allison and Greg, August 10, 2008

2008-09-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

Temecula, CA, was the location for Allison and Greg’s wedding. I was working with my good friend Monika, from Monika Orban Photography, as the second photographer. It’s refreshing being the second shooter because I have a little more creative freedom, and can run around taking shots of the action happening around the “edges”. We started taking pictures at Allison’s parents house, and all her family was there helping with last minute preparations. The ceremony was at Longshadow Ranch, a winery with a lovely spot for weddings, nestled in a small valley surrounded by hills of young vines. The bride rode in on a horse-drawn carriage with her dad, as Greg waited expectantly. The reception was held immediately after in a lovely white tent, and as the sun set, it was the end to a perfectly beautiful day.

Marianne and Dan, August 9, 2008

2008-09-17T06:02:00.000-07:00

Marianne and Dan, one of the nicest couples I’ve been privileged to meet, were married in South Pasadena at St. James Episcopal Church. As guests arrived, they were treated to gourmet lemonade, a refreshing surprise on a hot August day. Marianne made her preparations nearby at the home of a close friend, while Dan and his groomsmen got ready at St. James. In front of 300 guests, they celebrated their union with a variety of beautiful musical numbers hand-chosen for the occasion. The afternoon reception was a lovely tea, British style, and all of Marianne and Dan’s guests took the opportunity to wish them all the best. It was a wonderful afternoon!

Macie and Paul, August 8, 2008

2008-08-22T15:32:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2008, considered by many to be a lucky day, was the date chosen by Macie and Paul for their beautiful wedding on the beach. I met Macie at her Mom’s house, and spent some time taking shots as she prepared for the big day. When I arrived at Huntington Beach, Paul and his groomsmen were anxiously waiting, and we had a fun time taking pictures along the shore. Macie arrived a short while later and waited for the start of the ceremony in a billowy white tent. The ceremony was beautiful, the weather perfect, and the setting was out of a magazine!